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Why Can’t We See Our Friends in Elden Ring? All Your Questions Answered
Elden Ring, the upcoming action role-playing game from FromSoftware and Bandai Namco Entertainment, has generated a lot of buzz among gamers since its announcement in 2019. Created by legendary game director Hidetaka Miyazaki and acclaimed fantasy author George R. R. Martin, Elden Ring promises to deliver a magical and challenging universe full of mysteries and wonders. However, one aspect of the game that has puzzled many fans is its lack of multiplayer features that allow players to connect and play with their friends. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this decision and answer some common questions about it.
Why is Elden Ring not a multiplayer game?
According to Miyazaki, who spoke with IGN in 2019, Elden Ring is not a multiplayer game in the traditional sense because it is designed to be a “natural evolution” of FromSoftware’s previous titles, such as Dark Souls and Bloodborne. While these games had co-op and PvP modes that allowed players to team up or fight against each other, Elden Ring is focused on a “natural sense of companionship” that emerges from exploring the world and encountering other travelers. Miyazaki also emphasized that Elden Ring is a vast and complex game that requires a lot of attention and care from the player, and that adding multiplayer features would change the nature of the experience.
What kind of online features will Elden Ring have?
Although Elden Ring will not have traditional multiplayer modes such as co-op or PvP, it will have some online features that allow players to share their experiences with others. For example, players will be able to leave messages and hints for each other on the game’s world, similar to the “soapstone” system in Dark Souls. These messages can be helpful, misleading, or humorous, depending on the player’s intention. Moreover, players will be able to call upon “Spirits” to help them in battles, which are AI-controlled characters that represent the spirits of fallen warriors. These Spirits can be customized by the player and offer different abilities and attributes.
What are some advantages of not having multiplayer in Elden Ring?
While some fans may be disappointed by the absence of multiplayer in Elden Ring, there are some potential benefits to this decision. One of them is that the game can offer a more immersive and coherent narrative, without the need to balance the story and the gameplay for different players or groups. Another advantage is that the game can encourage a more exploratory and creative playstyle, where the player has to rely on their own skills and knowledge to overcome challenges and discover secrets. Finally, the game can foster a sense of loneliness and melancholy that fits with its themes of decay, abandonment, and rebirth.
What are some possible downsides of not having multiplayer in Elden Ring?
Of course, there are also some risks and drawbacks to not having multiplayer in Elden Ring. One of them is that the game may feel too isolated or lonely for some players, especially those who enjoy socializing and teamwork. Another downside is that the game may lose some replayability or variety, as players cannot create new characters or try different builds with their friends. Moreover, the game may not appeal to some audiences who prefer multiplayer games over single-player games.
Is there any chance that Elden Ring will have multiplayer in the future?
While Miyazaki has not ruled out the possibility of adding multiplayer features to Elden Ring in the future, he has emphasized that the game is designed to be a single-player experience that offers a “personal journey” to each player. Therefore, any potential multiplayer features would have to be carefully crafted and balanced with the game’s core vision and philosophy. It is also worth noting that Miyazaki and his team are known for their commitment and autonomy, and that they may not bow to external pressures or trends in the gaming industry.
Conclusion
Elden Ring is not a multiplayer game, but it offers some online features that enhance the sense of exploration and camaraderie in its world. While some players may prefer multiplayer games that allow them to play with their friends or strangers, Elden Ring is a unique and ambitious project that aims to deliver a personal and immersive experience to each player. Whether it succeeds or not remains to be seen, but at least it raises some interesting questions about the nature of video games and the expectations of players.
FAQs
1. Can I play Elden Ring with my friends?
No, Elden Ring does not have traditional multiplayer modes such as co-op or PvP. However, you can leave messages and summon Spirits to help you in battles.
2. What are Spirits in Elden Ring?
Spirits are AI-controlled characters that represent the spirits of fallen warriors. They can be customized by the player and offer different abilities and attributes.
3. Why did FromSoftware and Bandai Namco Entertainment decide not to include multiplayer in Elden Ring?
According to Hidetaka Miyazaki, Elden Ring is a natural evolution of FromSoftware’s previous titles and is focused on a “natural sense of companionship” that emerges from exploring the world and encountering other travelers.
4. Will Elden Ring have DLC or expansions?
There is no official confirmation yet about DLC or expansions for Elden Ring.
5. When will Elden Ring be released?
Elden Ring is scheduled to be released on February 25, 2022, for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
